Kilee Brookbank is an author, baker, animal lover, philanthropist — and burn survivor.

Burned on almost half her body when a gas leak caused her house to explode in November 2014, Kilee was hospitalized for thirty-eight days before returning home to a life of new challenges and a new “normal.” She faced skin grafts, physical therapy and excruciating pain, all while having to relearn how to do basic tasks, such as tying her shoes, putting on her makeup and even turning a doorknob.

With unwavering support from her mom, Lori, and the rest of her family, Kilee faced her journey with determination, strength, and a positive attitude that inspired not only her community, but people around the world.

In each moment of her long journey back to everyday life, Kilee had to make choices that would define who she was and who she would become. One of those choices was clear: Kilee felt compelled to give back to Shriners, the hospital that saved her life, and help support other children and families facing their own challenges.

A graduate of Xavier University, Kilee has met with individual survivors and their parents and spoken to school groups, burn camps and civic organizations across the country.

Her charity, the Kilee Gives Back Foundation, has raised more than $343,000 for Shriners Hospitals for Children-Cincinnati, and Kilee has partnered with Shriners Hospitals to promote its national Be Burn Aware campaign.

Kilee’s story is one of recovery, healing and hope, reminding us all that we’re never powerless, never alone, and that each challenge we face helps make us the people we are meant to be.